Planning an Alaska cruise? Icy Strait Point is one of the best places to experience authentic Alaskan culture and wilderness. As the only cruise port owned and operated by the Huna Totem Corporation, this destination offers a unique glimpse into Alaska’s most prominent Native Tlingit village and the surrounding area’s natural wonders.
Located along the famous Inside Passage and near Glacier Bay National Park, Icy Strait Point welcomes visitors with its rich local history and breathtaking scenery. Whether you’re arriving via Norwegian Cruise Line or other cruise operators, here’s your comprehensive guide to making the most of your time in this remarkable small town.
Getting Around Icy Strait Point
Your shore excursions begin at Ocean Landing or Wilderness Landing, where the Sky Glider gondola offers spectacular views as you travel between these areas. A round-trip ticket on the gondola is a good idea for enjoying aerial views of the nutrient-rich waters below, where you might spot sea otters, sea lions, and even killer whales.
The nearby town of Hoonah is easily accessible via shuttle bus, making it a great place to explore local culture. As Alaska’s most prominent Native Tlingit village, Hoonah offers authentic experiences you won’t find elsewhere during your Alaskan cruise.
Must-Do Activities and Attractions
1. ZipRider and Adventure Center
The zip line at Icy Strait Point isn’t just any ordinary attraction – it’s among the best ways to experience the surrounding waters and forest from above. Starting from the top of Hoonah Mountain, you’ll soar from sea level through the Tongass National Forest for an unforgettable adventure. Imagine soaring over the treetops, taking in breathtaking views of the Alaskan landscape. The ZipRider offers a unique perspective and a chance to experience nature heart-poundingly.
2. Wildlife Viewing Opportunities
The surrounding waters and forests of Icy Strait Point offer an incredible opportunity to witness Alaska’s diverse wildlife in its natural habitat. Whale-watching tours are particularly popular, as the nutrient-rich waters attract both massive humpback whales and majestic orca whales, also known as killer whales. Tour guides are skilled at identifying the best spots to witness these magnificent creatures breaching, feeding, or simply gliding through the pristine waters of the Inside Passage.
For those interested in land-based wildlife, bear search tours venture into the lush Tongass National Forest, where coastal brown bears can often be spotted fishing for salmon or foraging along the shoreline. Chichagoff Island, nicknamed “Bear Island,” boasts one of the world’s highest concentrations of brown bears per square mile, making it a prime location for bear viewing during the summer months.
Marine wildlife enthusiasts will be delighted by the variety of sea life visible during boat tours around Icy Strait Point. Playful sea otters can often be seen floating on their backs, using their bellies as natural dining tables while they crack open shells. Alert sea lions bark from rocky outcrops or glide effortlessly through the surrounding waters, while Dungeness crabs scuttle along the ocean floor in the crystal-clear shallows. The nutrient-rich waters of the Inside Passage create a perfect ecosystem for these diverse marine species, making wildlife spotting a virtually guaranteed experience for visitors.
3. Cultural Experiences
When you step into the Yaakw Kihidi Cultural Center, you’re not just walking into another museum – you’re entering a living, breathing celebration of Tlingit culture. What makes this place special is how it brings Alaska’s native heritage to life in such a personal way. The tour guides here aren’t just reading from scripts; they’re often sharing their family stories, and you can hear the pride in their voices as they talk about their community’s history and traditions.
The totem poles particularly struck me – they’re magnificent. Each one tells its unique story, and what’s impressive is how every carving and figure has a deeper meaning. The local guides do an incredible job of helping you understand what you’re looking at. It’s one thing to admire a totem pole for its artistic beauty, but it’s something else entirely when you learn the stories behind each carved figure. The Huna Totem Corporation has done fantastic work preserving these treasures, and it shows.
You can’t miss the traditional performances if you time your visit right. There’s something incredibly powerful about watching the dancers in their traditional regalia move to the beat of the drums. It’s not just a show—it’s generations of stories and traditions coming to life right before your eyes. The energy in the room during these performances is electric.
The exhibits throughout the center are thoughtfully put together, giving you an actual window into historical and modern Tlingit life. You’ll see everything from ancient hunting tools to contemporary artworks, and what’s fascinating is how you can trace the thread of tradition to the present day. What stuck with me was learning about how deeply connected the Tlingit people are to the land and waters around them – it gives you a whole new appreciation for the area’s natural beauty.
4. Historical Sites
The salmon cannery, formerly the Hoonah Packing Company, has been transformed into a cannery museum showcasing the backbone of Icy Strait Point’s economic history. This short walk through history provides fascinating insights into the area’s fishing heritage, from the early days when the cannery processed millions of pounds of wild Alaska salmon to its role in supporting local families through generations. Tour operators offer guided tours that bring the local history to life, with authentic machinery and equipment still in place from the facility’s operational days. The museum’s location at sea level, with stunning views of the surrounding waters where fishing boats once brought in their abundant catches, serves as a powerful reminder of how the Inside Passage’s nutrient-rich waters shaped the industry and the local community.
“Icy Strait Point is more than just another cruise port,” explains travel industry expert and CLIA-certified cruise specialist Mallory Lindsly. “Located near Glacier Bay National Park, this unique destination, owned by the Huna Totem Corporation, offers authentic Alaskan experiences from wildlife viewing to native cultural immersion. What sets it apart is its intimate connection to Alaska’s largest Tlingit village and commitment to sustainable tourism. Visitors can explore the historic salmon cannery, soar down the world’s longest zip line, watch whales in nutrient-rich waters, and enjoy fresh seafood while supporting the local Hoonah community. The combination of adventure activities, cultural experiences, and unspoiled wilderness makes Icy Strait Point a must-visit destination on any Alaska cruise itinerary.”
Dining and Local Cuisine
There’s no need to rush back to your cruise ship for lunch when visiting Icy Strait Point – the local dining scene offers some of the best places to experience authentic Alaskan cuisine. From fresh-caught seafood to locally sourced ingredients, the restaurants here give visitors an authentic taste of Alaska while supporting the local community. Whether you’re craving Dungeness crab just pulled from the nutrient-rich waters or seeking a casual spot for a quick bite between shore excursions, you’ll find plenty of delicious options.
Duck Point Smokehouse Restaurant
The Duck Point Smokehouse Restaurant has earned a reputation as one of the best places to dine in Icy Strait Point, offering fresh seafood with spectacular views of the surrounding waters. The outdoor seating area provides a great chance to spot sea lions and sea otters while enjoying your meal. Their famous Alaska Blue Burger, topped with locally caught fish, has been featured in several travel magazines and is a must-try for visitors. The restaurant also specializes in house-smoked salmon and halibut, prepared using traditional smoking techniques passed down through generations in the local community.
Cookhouse Restaurant
Located in the historic salmon cannery building, the Cookhouse Restaurant has an authentic taste of Alaska’s fishing heritage. This beloved establishment, operated by Huna Totem Corporation, offers a menu that celebrates the bounty of the surrounding waters. The fresh seafood selection changes based on what local fishermen bring in during fishing expeditions. However, you can always count on finding Dungeness crab, wild-caught salmon, and locally harvested fish on the menu. During the summer, the restaurant’s spacious dining room provides the perfect respite after a guided tour or zip line adventure.
Local Specialties
Beyond these main restaurants, you’ll find several smaller eateries and food stands throughout the port area. The Stream Fishing Food Court near the Adventure Center offers quick bites and local favorites. For those interested in sampling traditional Alaska Native cuisine, several tour operators include food tastings as part of their cultural tours. Don’t miss trying fresh seafood at one of the outdoor seating areas – there’s nothing quite like enjoying just-caught fish while watching fishing boats return to the harbor.
Activities for Nature Enthusiasts
Fishing Adventures
Book a fishing expedition or try stream fishing in the surrounding waters. The nutrient-rich waters around Chichagoff Island provide excellent opportunities for catching salmon and halibut. Tour guides can take you to the best spots, whether you are a beginner or an experienced angler.
Hiking and Nature Walks
From the top of the mountain, hiking trails offer spectacular views of the surrounding area. The Tongass National Forest provides numerous paths for family members of all skill levels. National Geographic has even featured some of these trails for their stunning beauty and wildlife viewing opportunities.
“For many travelers, visiting Icy Strait Point is a highlight of their Alaska cruise experience,” explains travel industry expert and CLIA-certified cruise specialist Mallory Lindsly. “What makes this port special is its authentic connection to the local Tlingit culture and its commitment to sustainable tourism through the Huna Totem Corporation. Unlike other ports that can feel commercialized, Icy Strait Point offers genuine Alaskan experiences – from watching brown bears in their natural habitat to enjoying fresh-caught seafood at locally-owned restaurants. The zip line and whale watching excursions are spectacular, but the cultural immersion and warm welcome from the Hoonah community create those unforgettable memories for my clients.”
Planning Your Visit
Best Time to Visit
The summer months (May through September) offer the best weather and wildlife viewing opportunities. This is when you’ll have the best chance to see whales breaching in the surrounding waters and bears fishing along the shoreline.
Tips for Visitors
- Book popular shore excursions in advance, especially during peak season
- Allow much time for wildlife viewing – nature operates on its schedule
- Consider taking a guided tour to make the most of your visit
- Bring layers, as weather can change quickly at sea level
- Don’t miss the Sky Glider gondola for spectacular views
Frequently Asked Questions
Icy Strait Point offers a treasure trove of activities and experiences, from thrilling wildlife encounters and cultural immersions to family-friendly adventures and shopping. Here, I answer some of the most commonly asked questions to help you plan your visit.
What are the best excursions to experience wildlife in Icy Strait Point?
One of the top activities is taking a whale-watching cruise. Humpback whales are often spotted in the nearby waters of Point Adolphus. Additionally, bear-watching tours offer a chance to see Alaskan brown bears in their natural habitat.
Can visitors enjoy the Icy Strait Point attractions without purchasing excursions?
Yes, several attractions are accessible without buying excursions. For instance, you can explore the scenic trails, visit the historic cannery, or enjoy the beautiful views from the beach area. The complimentary Transporter Gondola takes guests between key points in the area.
What are some unique cultural experiences available in Icy Strait Point?
Icy Strait Point provides rich cultural experiences, such as the native heritage center, where you can watch traditional Tlingit dance performances and learn about the history and culture of the indigenous people. Local arts and crafts are also featured.
Where can families with children find age-appropriate activities in Icy Strait Point?
Families can enjoy various kid-friendly activities. The beach area is perfect for a relaxed day out. The gondola rides provide scenic views that children will love. Adventure Park offers a fun and safe environment where kids can enjoy zip lines and other outdoor activities.
What shopping opportunities are available near the Icy Strait Point cruise port?
Near the cruise port, you’ll find a variety of shops offering local crafts, souvenirs, and Alaskan-made products. The restored cannery area features boutiques where you can purchase unique items, including locally sourced seafood and native art.
What are some recommended nature trails or walks for visitors in Icy Strait Point?
For nature enthusiasts, several trails, like the Hoonah Mountain Trail, offer stunning vistas and a chance to see local wildlife. Another popular option is the Coastal Trail, which allows a leisurely walk along the shoreline. It is ideal for birdwatching and enjoying scenic beauty.
Icy Strait Point perfectly blends adventure, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in soaring down a zip line, learning about native culture, or enjoying fresh seafood while watching for whales, this destination provides unforgettable experiences for everyone on your Alaskan cruise. The combination of authentic local experiences and stunning wilderness makes it one of the best things you can do during your Inside Passage adventure.
